Celestyal has cancelled two further sailings after repositioning plans were delayed due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East

The line initially cancelled six sailings as a result of US-Israel military action in Iran which escalated at the end of February where air strikes killed Iranian leader Ali Khamenei. Iran responded by bombing US allies in the region, including Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait.

At that point, the line had passengers onboard Celestyal Discovery in Dubai and Celestyal Journey in Doha. The line cancelled the remainder of its Arabian Gulf season and evacuated all passengers.

It has now confirmed it has cancelled two Greek Island sailings, one departing 27 March and the other 30 March, both due to be operated by Celestyal Discovery, as the ship’s repositioning plans have been delayed. Affected passengers will be offered a full refund or future cruise credit.

A spokesperson for the line said: “As the conflict in the Middle East continues, and in close coordination with the relevant authorities, we have had to delay the repositioning of Celestyal Discovery ahead of the start of her Mediterranean programme.

“All guests have safely disembarked from Celestyal Discovery in Dubai and Celestyal Journey in Doha. Both vessels are fully operational and their departure from the region will take place in line with guidance from the relevant authorities.

“We continue to monitor developments closely and remain focused on resuming our planned programme as soon as possible. We thank guests and valued partners for their patience and understanding.”